The African National Congress (ANC) has expressed its desire to meet with U.S. Ambassador Reuben Brigety after he spoke out against their policy on Ukraine, which asserts the United States provoked the conflict with Russia, in an attempt to contain the country. The ANC refutes claims that South Africa sold arms to Russia. The government’s stance remains non-aligned in the conflict. However, Brigety stands by his statement, referring to any apology given as a “misimpression”. The issue arose during an NWC meeting, held after KwaZulu-Natal saw a brutal attack on a local family.
Eight people were burnt to death when armed perpetrators invaded a property searching for the owner and failed to find him. They then instructed the victims to disrobe before dousing them in a flammable substance and setting them alight. Four survivors with severe burns were taken to the hospital. The motive for the attack remains unknown, and an investigation is ongoing.
Meanwhile, telecommunications giant Vodacom has invested R4 billion in alternative power sources, including batteries and generators since 2020. The additional expenses of R300 million this past financial year have resulted in higher running costs. Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub called the energy crisis devastating for the telecommunications industry. Despite this, the company increased its net profit by 2.1% according to its full-year earnings report.
These incidents are just a small part of the ongoing issues faced in South Africa, requiring constant attention, engagement and solutions, both immediate and long-term.
